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They always make news: airplanes outfitted with the trappings of an emergency medical center airlifting critical patients to trauma centers in minutes. Many people aren’t aware of the fact that air ambulances also transport non-emergency patients. They've been doing so since 1866, when shipwrecked sailors were rescued by a hot air balloon, establishing what would eventually become the MedEvac industry. The cost can be hefty, though. If you require an air ambulance medical airlift in the future, you can save money by sharing the ride.

Items you will need

Phone

Computer

Internet connection

Air ambulance service

Credit card or payment option

Step 1

Begin where all travelers start: Use your phone or the Internet to locate air ambulance carriers. Compare costs and ask each one if shared transport is available, either because you have been put into contact with another patient who requires the service or because you wish the air ambulance service to match you up with someone else.

Step 2

Opt for the air ambulance service that covers the most number of costs, including on-ground transit, flight crew, medical personnel, insurance claim processing, fees for accompanying passengers and other costs. Request proof of licensing and insurance from your top choices. Once you and the other patient agree upon one service, book your shared travel date.

Step 3

Speak with a charge nurse to take care of the paperwork. Provide essential information including the medical services you’ll need in-flight (this determines the type and number of personnel required to keep you stable enroute). Offer your travel partner’s contact information, if it's not already on file, so they can answer the same questions.

Step 4

Agree upon a departure venue that serves you and the other party being transported. Notify both receiving hospitals of your planned arrivals. Expect all other arrangements to be handled by the air ambulance company with whom you contracted (see links below).

Step 5

Negotiate an adjusted payment schedule that takes into account the shared cost of the air ambulance flight. Use your credit card or a service like PayPal to cover half of the total bill and check with your travel partner to confirm payment. Expect to be billed separately for customized on-the-ground arrangements if you and the other passenger are heading to separate facilities.

Step 6

Be mindful of the fact that the transportation of multiple patients often limits the amount of luggage you’ll be able to take on board. Air ambulances are outfitted with a vast amount of equipment and supplies for emergency treatment. Expect to be permitted just one accompanying person. If you make your shared arrangements early enough, pets may be accommodated, since air ambulance firms are as concerned about patient well-being as they are about the paramedical care they provide.

References

About the Author

Based in Chicago, Gail Cohen has been a professional writer for more than 30 years. She has authored and co-authored 14 books and penned hundreds of articles in consumer and trade publications, including the Illinois-based "Daily Herald" newspaper. Her newest book, "The Christmas Quilt," was published in December 2011.

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